National Professional Officer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: National Professional Officer
Location: Gaziantep
Country: Turkey
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees in more than 150 countries, WHO operates globally to address health emergencies, improve health systems, and enhance health outcomes. The organization works in collaboration with member states and partners to respond to health crises and strengthen health systems.

Job Overview:
The National Professional Officer will play a pivotal role in WHO's emergency program, focusing on enhancing health sector preparedness and response to crises. The incumbent will provide technical guidance in disease surveillance and outbreak response, ensuring that health needs of affected populations are promptly assessed and addressed. This position requires adaptability, as the duty station may change based on program requirements. The officer will be responsible for developing standard operating procedures for disease surveillance, supporting outbreak investigations, and collaborating with partners to strengthen health systems. The role also involves contributing to epidemiological reports and mobilizing resources for health interventions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including: developing and adapting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for disease surveillance and response; guiding outbreak investigations; creating training materials and conducting training sessions; enhancing laboratory capabilities for disease diagnosis; applying monitoring and evaluation methods; collaborating with partners for planning and evaluation; contributing to the Epidemiological Bulletin; preparing regular reports on project implementation; participating in resource mobilization efforts; and facilitating the Surveillance, Outbreak Preparedness, and Response Taskforce meetings, ensuring proper documentation and follow-up on action points.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first university degree in medicine or public health from an accredited institution. An advanced degree in epidemiology, statistics, or a related field is desirable. Essential qualifications include at least five years of experience in quantitative epidemiology or public health programs, particularly in humanitarian settings. Familiarity with WHO's mandate and experience in UN organizations are advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate technical knowledge in disease prevention and control, strategic planning, and the ability to develop collaborative partnerships.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a first university degree in a health-related field, with a preference for candidates holding a Master's level or higher degree in epidemiology, statistics, or public health from a recognized institution. Candidates must ensure that their qualifications are accredited and recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant experience in public health, particularly in areas related to disease surveillance, control, and immunization in emergency contexts, is essential. Desirable experience includes working with WHO or similar UN agencies, as well as experience in developing countries and emergency response scenarios. Candidates should have a proven track record of implementing health programs and managing public health initiatives.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Intermediate knowledge of Arabic or Turkish is considered desirable, as it may facilitate communication and collaboration with local partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, meaning only applications from nationals of Turkey will be accepted. The remuneration package includes an annual base salary starting at USD 47,857, with mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Employees are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented member states. The organization adheres to strict ethical standards and has a zero-tolerance policy towards harassment and abuse. Candidates must confirm their vaccination status as part of the recruitment process.